Alex Caruso has long been a fan favorite among Los Angeles Lakers supporters, known for his gritty defense, hustle plays, and undeniable chemistry with stars like LeBron James. But at one point, Caruso’s path nearly took a turn that could have made him a villain in the eyes of Lakers faithful—and changed how he’s remembered in L.A. lore.
After becoming a key contributor during the Lakers’ 2020 championship run, Caruso hit free agency in 2021. Despite his value to the team and his clear desire to stay, the Lakers reportedly offered him a deal far below his market value. Faced with a difficult choice, Caruso signed a four-year, $37 million contract with the Chicago Bulls—a deal many believed the Lakers could have matched or come close to.
Had Caruso chosen to chase a bigger payday with a rival or a title contender perceived as a Lakers threat, it’s possible his departure would’ve been seen as betrayal rather than business. Imagine him landing in Boston or Golden State—two franchises with deep-rooted rivalries against L.A. That move alone could have flipped his narrative from cult hero to villain.
Instead, Caruso handled the exit with grace. He never threw shade at the Lakers organization or fanbase and continues to speak fondly about his time in Los Angeles. His commitment to his new team hasn’t erased the memories of his purple-and-gold hustle, but it has created a “what if” scenario that still lingers in fans’ minds.
In a league where player movement can quickly shift public perception, Caruso’s near-villain arc serves as a reminder of how thin the line is between beloved and betrayed. Fortunately for Lakers fans, his departure didn’t come with bitterness—and for that, his legacy in L.A. remains
intact.
